Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Words With: Laura Shumaker

LS: I was sure that the psychologist got it wrong. While I knew something was not quite right, I was determined to fix it.

AW: What was your defining moment of acceptance?

LS: Matthew was ten years old, I was wiped out from trying to manage his disruptive behavior, and it hit me that his condition was life long. It was a dark time, but once I grasped the concept, I knew I had to accept it and move forward.

AW:What inspired you to start your blog? Your book?

LS: I was inspired to write my book because of family and friends misconception that Matthew was a burden to me. How can a child that you love so much be a burden? I wanted to explain, and hoped that my story would help others learn to love and accept Matthew, quirks and all, and teach them to be more tolerant in the differences of others. I was inspired to write my blog to continue the conversation!

AW:What has been your most rewarding aspect of being special needs writer/advocate?

LS: I feel like I have helped a lot of people. I think that when parents read about my challenges raising Matthew they realize that they are not alone. I try to show how I solve problems so that they feel empowered to tackle their own challenges.

AW:What advice would you offer parents of recently diagnosed children?